In re J.M. CA4/2

I.

INTRODUCTION

During a jurisdiction/disposition hearing, the juvenile court terminated jurisdiction

over J.R. (Father) and M.M.’s (Mother) four children, Ez.M. (born in 2012), E.M. (born

in 2014), S.M. (born in 2018), and J.M. (born in 2022) (the Children). The Children were

removed from Father’s custody, based on findings he committed domestic violence

against Mother in the Children’s presence. The Children were permitted to remain with

Mother.

Father appeals the exit orders (1) terminating supervised visitation, (2) finding

visitation between the Children and Father detrimental to the Children’s physical and

emotional well-being, (3) authorizing Mother to move out of the county and state without

prior approval of the court or notice to Father, and (4) finding Father is an alleged father

of J.M. Father contends there was insufficient evidence to support these orders and they

violate his due process rights. He also contends that his attorney committed ineffective

assistance (IAC) by not taking appropriate steps to establish his paternal status as to J.M.

or object to the finding that he is merely an alleged father. Father is not objecting to

termination of…